Angel Cop Complete OVA Series [Blu-ray] Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Angel Cop is a name that resonates with fans of mature, violent, and politically charged cyberpunk anime. This gritty OVA series, originally released in the early 90s, presents a dystopian vision of Japan where special police forces combat terrorism with extreme prejudice. Discotek Media has given this controversial classic a Blu-ray release, promising improved visuals and audio. But does this new edition justify the upgrade, and is Angel Cop still relevant to modern anime viewers?
This review dives deep into the Angel Cop Complete OVA Series Blu-ray, exploring its key features, strengths, and weaknesses. We'll also discuss who this release is suitable for and how it stacks up against other classic anime titles. If you're a long-time fan or curious about exploring this influential series, keep reading to find out if this Blu-ray is a worthy addition to your collection.
Key Features
- • Complete OVA Series: Includes all six episodes of the original Angel Cop OVA series.
- • Blu-ray Quality: Presented in high definition, offering a significant visual upgrade over previous releases.
- • English Dub and Original Japanese Audio with Subtitles: Catering to both English and Japanese-speaking audiences.
- • Discotek Media Release: Known for their dedication to preserving and enhancing classic anime.
- • Mature Themes and Violence: Contains graphic content and explores complex political and social issues.
Pros
- • Significant Visual Upgrade: The Blu-ray release offers a noticeably sharper and more detailed image compared to older VHS or DVD versions. The animation, while dated by today's standards, benefits from the improved clarity.
- • High-Quality Audio Presentation: The audio is crisp and clear, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the series' intense soundtrack and voice acting, whether you choose the English dub or the original Japanese audio.
- • Preserves a Cult Classic: Discotek Media has done a great job preserving Angel Cop for future generations. This release ensures that this influential and often controversial anime remains accessible.
Cons
- • Dated Animation Style: The animation is undeniably a product of its time. Modern viewers accustomed to contemporary anime styles may find it jarring or unappealing.
- • Extreme Violence and Mature Themes: The series' graphic violence and mature themes may not be suitable for all viewers. It's a very dark and intense viewing experience.
Who Should Buy Angel Cop on Blu-ray?
This Blu-ray release is primarily aimed at existing fans of Angel Cop who want to experience the series in the best possible quality. The visual upgrade alone makes it a worthwhile purchase for those who have fond memories of the original OVA. Collectors of classic anime and fans of cyberpunk and dystopian narratives will also find this release appealing. The series' exploration of political corruption and the use of extreme force resonate even today, providing a thought-provoking, if unsettling, viewing experience.
However, newcomers should be aware of the series' intense content. Angel Cop is not for the faint of heart. If you're easily offended by graphic violence or mature themes, this series may not be for you. Consider watching a trailer or reading more reviews before making a purchase.
If you are a fan of other similar anime titles such as Akira, Ghost in the Shell or Bubblegum Crisis and don't mind extreme violence, then Angel Cop might be a good choice. Just keep in mind that Angel Cop takes the violence level even further.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Fans, Proceed with Caution for Newcomers
At a price of $29.95, the Angel Cop Complete OVA Series Blu-ray offers good value for fans looking to upgrade their existing copies or experience the series in the best possible quality. While the dated animation style and extreme content may deter some viewers, Discotek Media has delivered a solid release that preserves this controversial and influential cyberpunk classic. We encourage you to buy it today!
